MotoGP: Michael Schumacher plays down wild card rumour

Formula One legend Michael Schumacher has again ruled out making a shock wild card appearance in a MotoGP race in 2008 after he made a surprise appearance on Ducati’s GP8 machine in Mugello today.

The bike mad German, who has recently taken part in races in Catalunya and Misano, rode the Desmosedici after test and development rider Vittoriano Guareschi was injured in a crash.

Schumacher, who first rode Casey Stoner’s GP7 in Valencia last year and was only five seconds off the pace, has been linked with a wild card during 2008, with rumours of an appearance in the Sachsenring race in July.

Schumacher completed 42 laps with a best time of 1.58, which is eight seconds behind the fastest 800cc race lap in Mugello clocked by Dani Pedrosa in 2007.

"It was a nice surprise yesterday when I received the sudden offer to come to Mugello today, “said Schumacher.

"And despite the difficult weather conditions it was again big fun to ride the Ducati. But I repeat it very clearly that I have no intention at all to step into any kind of MotoGP competition."